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Silk Peptide

Also known as: Silk peptide, Acid hydrolyzed silk peptide, Silk fibroin hydrolysate, Silk Peptide

Overview

Silk peptide is a hydrolyzed protein derived from the cocoons of the silkworm *Bombyx mori*. It is composed primarily of amino acids such as glycine, alanine, and serine, similar to collagen, elastin, and keratin. This water-soluble and bioavailable peptide is used as a dietary supplement and explored in biomedical applications. Research suggests it may enhance immune function, improve metabolic health (particularly glucose regulation), and support tissue regeneration. Animal studies indicate immunomodulatory and metabolic regulatory properties, with potential benefits for immune cell activity and insulin sensitivity. However, human clinical trials are limited, and more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans. Silk peptide is considered a functional food ingredient and nutraceutical due to its potential health benefits.

Benefits

Silk peptide has demonstrated potential benefits in animal models. Oral administration in mice significantly enhanced natural killer (NK) cell activity and splenocyte proliferation, with up to 6-fold increases in lymphocyte proliferation. In a rat model of type 2 diabetes, silk peptide supplementation improved glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion, showing comparable effects to metformin. It may also prevent gut microbiota dysbiosis in diabetic rats. Silk fibroin-based scaffolds have shown promise in tissue regeneration, though this is more relevant to biomedical applications. Evidence is primarily from animal models, and human data are lacking. Clinical significance in humans remains to be established.

How it works

Silk peptide's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. It modulates the immune system by enhancing NK cell activity and lymphocyte proliferation, possibly through amino acid-mediated signaling and cytokine responsiveness. Metabolically, it improves insulin sensitivity and potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, potentially by modulating gut microbiota and directly affecting pancreatic beta cells. The amino acid composition suggests involvement in protein synthesis and cell signaling pathways related to immune activation and insulin signaling. After ingestion, silk peptides are hydrolyzed into smaller peptides and amino acids, which are absorbed in the gut and become bioavailable for systemic effects.

Side effects

Animal studies report no significant adverse effects on spleen or thymus weight at high doses (up to 7,500 mg/kg/day). However, there is a lack of human safety data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been reported in animal studies. Drug interactions and contraindications are not established. Due to the limited data, special population considerations are unknown, and caution is advised. Further research is needed to fully assess the safety profile of silk peptide in humans. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using silk peptide supplements, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Dosage

In animal models, immune effects were observed at doses starting from 750 mg/kg/day, while metabolic effects were seen at 0.1 g/kg/day in rats. For metabolic benefits in rats, a dosage range of 0.1–0.5 g/kg/day was used, and for immune effects in mice, 1,500–7,500 mg/kg/day was administered. No toxicity was observed at the highest tested doses in animals. Benefits were observed after 2 months (immune) and 8 weeks (metabolic) of continuous administration. Acid hydrolyzed silk peptide powder or extract is commonly used. Hydrolyzed peptides have good bioavailability. Due to the lack of human data, specific dosage recommendations for humans cannot be established, and caution is advised.

FAQs

Is silk peptide safe for human consumption?

Animal studies suggest safety at high doses, but human safety data are lacking. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

How long does it take to see benefits?

Animal studies indicate 2 months for immune effects and 8 weeks for metabolic improvements. Human data are needed.

Can silk peptide help with diabetes?

Preclinical evidence in diabetic rat models shows improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, comparable to metformin.

Does silk peptide support immune health?

Yes, in mice it enhances NK cell activity and lymphocyte proliferation, suggesting potential immune-boosting effects.

Are there any known side effects?

No significant side effects reported in animal studies, but human data are limited. Monitor for any adverse reactions.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6215900/ – This animal study investigated the effects of oral silk peptide administration on immune function in mice. The results showed that silk peptide significantly increased natural killer (NK) cell activity and splenocyte proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting a potential immunomodulatory effect. The study reported no organ toxicity at the tested doses, indicating a favorable safety profile in mice.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7071241/ – This study examined the impact of silk peptide supplementation on glucose metabolism in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. The findings revealed that silk peptide improved glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion, with effects comparable to metformin. Additionally, silk peptide preserved lean body mass and bone mineral density, suggesting potential benefits for metabolic health in diabetic conditions.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01716 – This systematic review focuses on the use of silk fibroin scaffolds in tissue regeneration. The review highlights the biocompatibility and supportive properties of silk fibroin for various tissue engineering applications, including musculoskeletal and cardiac tissues. While the review primarily addresses biomedical applications, it underscores the potential of silk fibroin-derived materials in regenerative medicine.
https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adg0234 – This research explores the use of silk-based biomaterials for advanced wound healing applications. The study demonstrates that silk fibroin can be engineered into various forms, such as hydrogels and films, to promote tissue regeneration and reduce scar formation. The findings suggest that silk-based materials hold promise for improving wound care and enhancing the healing process.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jafc.6b03327 – This study investigates the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of silk fibroin peptides. The research demonstrates that silk fibroin peptides exhibit significant antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, the peptides showed anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting potential benefits for reducing inflammation-related diseases.